Stucco is a common exterior finish. You may have even seen it on your house. But few people know that there are many types of stucco. The most popular types of stucco mix are traditional and acrylic. You will be able to choose the best type for your home by knowing the differences.

Acrylic stucco is also known as synthetic stucco or elastomeric. It is made from acrylic resins and glue-like polymers. To give your exterior a more defined look, high quality brands will add sand. You can choose from many textures and colors.

Traditional exterior stucco consists of water, lime, sand and Portland cement. You can apply it in a wide variety of textures and colors. You can also call it cement stucco finishing, classic stucco and hard coat stucco.

ACRYLIC STUCCO

PROS

Acrylic stucco is easy to apply and energy-efficient. It comes in a wet form so you can mix it with a paddle attachment to your drill. Because of its flexibility, the material is extremely flexible and resistant to cracks at the hairline. Acrylic stucco is available in many vibrant colours that can be painted. This stucco is not susceptible to fading and can be painted over. Synthetic stucco is weather- and fire resistant, and sound resistant.

CONS:

Because synthetic stucco is made from polymers, it can be more expensive than traditional stucco. It isn't a popular exterior stucco so it may be harder to find. Acrylic stucco is faster drying so you should only apply it by someone who has experience with stucco application.

TRADITIONAL STUCCO

PROS

Traditional stucco is extremely affordable at $10-$15 per 80-90lb bag. Classic stucco can be used in a variety of colours and textures. It can easily cover any blemishes or dings in your home. You can paint or have classic stucco painted. Traditional stucco can be painted or made soundproof like synthetic stucco. It is easily found and sold anywhere traditional stucco can be purchased.

CONS:

Classic stucco comes as a dry mix, so it can be difficult to mix. If you don't mix enough, colour variations may occur. Exterior stucco can fade over time, so you will need to paint it. Regular maintenance is necessary as it is susceptible to cracking. Additional mud stands or boards are required to secure the stucco to your home when it is applied to exterior surfaces.

CHARACTERISTICS

Acrylic stucco is more flexible than traditional stucco. Acrylic stucco can be applied to homes with wire mesh underlay. It is more rigid than traditional stucco and requires an exterior coating that includes a foam insulation board, synthetic stucco, fiberglass mesh, and a top coat.

Acrylic stucco repels water, while traditional stucco absorbs it. Once the water has escaped, the stucco will dry.

Synthetic stucco can be used for three coats or one coat. Classic stucco can be used for both one- and three-coat applications.

MADE OUT OF

Traditional stucco is made from sandy, often white, lime, Portland cement, water, and other materials. Acrylic resins and polymers give acrylic stucco a Elmer's glue texture.

What is EIFS?

EIFS stucco is also known as Exterior Insulation and Finish System (or EIFS stucco) is a multi-layered synthetic stucco widely used in Europe. It was used to repair damaged buildings after the war. It was first used by contractors in North America in the late 70's to cover commercial buildings. Six layers make up the EFIS stucco system.

1. Optional Water-Resistive Barrier, (WRB), is a fluid that covers subtrate
2. To create a drainage plan, glue ribbons between WRB and insulation boards
3. Foam insulation is attached to the exterior subtrate with adhesive ribbons
4. Acrylic or polymer-based cement materials are used as a base coat. It is applied on top of insulation.
5. Glass-fiber reinforcement mesh embedded into the base coat
6. Protective and decorative finish made from crack-resistant polymers